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Ecology teaches us “that the total economy of the planet…

“Ecology teaches us “that the total economy of the planet cannot be guided by an efficient rationale of exploitation alone,” wrote Burke more than 70 years ago, “but that the exploiting part must eventually suffer if it too greatly disturbs the balance of the whole.” quote by Kenneth Burke
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““Ecology teaches us “that the total economy of the planet cannot be guided by an efficient rationale of exploitation alone,” wrote Burke more than 70 years ago, “but that the exploiting part must eventually suffer if it too greatly disturbs the balance of the whole.””

Kenneth Burke

About This Quote

This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.

Ecology warns that exploiting the planet unsustainably will eventually harm the exploiters, as imbalance harms the whole system.

In simple terms: Exploitation harms both nature and the exploiter.

Key Takeaway

Adopt sustainable practices to preserve balance.

Themes

environment economics balance systems thinking

Mood

concerned urgent

Type

environmental philosophical

When to use this quote

  • business strategy
  • policy making
  • personal consumption
  • urban planning

Key Concepts

ecology rhetoric sustainability

Questions to Reflect On

  • What trade‑offs are you willing to make for sustainability?
  • How can you influence others to consider systemic impact?
A Different Perspective

Short‑term gains often ignore long‑term costs.

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